US and UK medical eligibility criteria for the use of contraceptive methods in older women29,80
| Method of contraception | Age group, yr | Medical eligibility criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Estrogen-containing method | ≥ 40 | Benefits outweigh risks |
| Progestin-only pill | ≥ 40 | No restriction |
| Progestin implant | ≥ 40 | No restriction |
| DMPA | ≥ 40 to 45 | No restriction |
| > 45 | Benefits outweigh risks | |
| Copper IUD | ≥ 40 | No restriction |
| Levonorgestrel-releasing IUD | ≥ 40 | No restriction |
Note: DMPA = depot medroxyprogesterone acetate, IUD = intrauterine device.